Trayvon Martin: One Year After The Verdict

It's been a year since one of the biggest miscarriages of justice ever occurred. Trayvon Martin's killer was found not guilty. How?! I will never know. The facts of the case were clear. Martin was stalked and hunted and executed for nothing more than being a Black man in a hoodie. There is nothing right or just about that. His killer deserves to die a horrible slow death locked in a tiny cell. Instead, he is still breathing and walking free. This is not justice. A year later, I am still disgusted by the verdict. I've written about Trayvon Martin a lot. There is something about his murder that struck a deep cord in me. It's been a year since Martin was denied justice. A year filled with ridiculous actions by his killer. The most recent being a report that he is homeless and broke. Good. Martin's killer deserves much worse than that for taking a life. I still weep for Martin and his family.  

"I will never accept the verdict," Sybrina Fulton said. "I still feel like my son was murdered."

A year later, the fight still continues for Martin's parents, Sybrina and Tracy. There is a Trayvon Martin Foundation housed at Florida Memorial University. The people who wrongly believe that we are living in a post-racial America are quite deluded. Racism is alive and well and thriving in these United States of America. Almost 57 years after the brutal killing of Emmett Till, a case like Martin's still exists. Both young men who were killed because their skin color made someone uncomfortable. Both too young to be taken in such a brutal manner. Where is the justice? There is nothing we can do to bring Martin back. But, we can all make sure no one ever forgets his name because his story is important. Also, so his murder won't be in vain. A year later, the injustice still stings. A year later, we are still angry. A year later, a murderer is still walking free. I do not know about you but there is nothing just about that. No Justice, No Peace. R.I.P. Trayvon Martin.

Trayvon Martin Update

It happened on February 26, 2012. Today is April 11, 2012. It has been 6 weeks have passed since Trayvon's murder. Still no arrest, still no justice. Race relations are simmering right at the surface behind this. Many are beyond upset about the utter mishandling of this case. I've already blogged about my outrage of the Trayvon Martin case here. That's not what this blog is about. I felt the need to update people on what has or rather hasn't happened since then.

Angela Corey is the special prosecutor that has been assigned to this case. This week,she has decided to forgo a grand jury indictment. What this means is that the power to charge or not charge Zimmerman lays solely in her hands. This can be a good or a bad thing depending on how Corey feels about the case. This move is a bold and unexpected one. I want to hold out faith that she will do the right thing and press charges. There was a murder committed and the guilty party, Zimmerman, needs to pay for his crimes.

George Zimmerman has decided to "Speak" on his own behalf via a website. It can be viewed here. On this website, Zimmerman is doing two things: asking for sympathy and donations for his defense. Are you serious George?? I call bs on this website and its meassage. Where was the sympathy for Trayvon? No amount of donations can bring him back to his family. I am disgusted by this blatant attempt by Zimmerman to paint himself as the victim when he took a life. Sorry sir, but the victim card cannot be played here. Not by you. And, I feel some kind of way about him begging for money. I will also feel nothing for anyone who donates to this bogus fund. What is wrong with people? How is this behavior even ok?

Yes, Zimmerman has been crucified in the press. But, that is of his own doing. If he had not decided to take the law into his own hands, none of us would ever have known his name. He killed Trayvon in cold blood. I have no sympathy for weak little men who carry guns to make themselves feel bigger, more important. Yes, I also know my personal experiences with men in my familly have been murdered. But, the reality is right is right and wrong is wrong. Zimmerman was dead wrong. He killed a child. He deserves nothing less than jail.

The final piece of this weird puzzle is that Zimmerman's attorneys have now resigned. They claim they have lost all contact with their client. How is it even possible that a murderer is roaming free without anyone keeping tabs on him? Yes, I know that here people are innocent until proving guilty in the court of law. They have to go through that process first though. Since Zimmerman has yet to be arrested, people have decided his guilt for themselves. This is what a miscarriage of justice looks like. It's not pretty nor is it right.

So, what now? How much longer will Tracy and Sybrina (Trayvon's parents) have to wait to get justice for their son? It's been 6 weeks too long for them. Six weeks too long for all of us who have been following this sad case. The more I think of it, the more pissed I get. As much as I love the law, I know that it is beyond flawed. Lady Justice is clearly not blind. She sees exactly what she wants to see. All I want is justice for Trayvon Martin. He deserves it, his parents deserve it. Until this happens, I cannot allow myself to write about it anymore without getting so upset. Arrest George Zimmerman now. Give us justice for Trayvon.

Justice for Trayvon Martin

I really didn't want to write about this story because it angers me. But, since there hasn't even been an arrest, I have to blog something. On February 26th, a 17 year old Black child left the house during the All Star Halftime to the his brother some skittles from the store. Trayvon never made it back home. He was shot once and died in the street. His murderer is 26 year old George Zimmerman. Almost 3 weeks later, Zimmerman has yet to be arrested. Why? No one knows. The facts in this case are clear cut. An unarmed kid was watched, followed and eventually shot and killed by a grown man with a racial grudge. Point blank.

Zimmerman was the head of the Neighborhood Watch. He saw Martin walking through the gated community & called the police. He had no reason to because walking while Black isn't against the law. The dispatcher told Zimmerman to stand down & a patrol car would be on the way. That wasn't good enough. He told the dispatcher that "they always get away with stuff." That tells me that Zimmerman had an agenda & he wasn't goig to let "them" get away with anything else. This man followed the kid in his car and he was armed with a gun. He then proceeded to get out of his car & confront Martin. Apparently, a fight ensued. Zimmerman is 9 years older & approximately 100 pounds heavier than Martin.

Zimmerman shot and killed Martin in cold blood. This young Black man did not have a weapon on him. As a matter of fact, all he had in his possession was $22, a bag of skittles & a Arizona iced tea. He claims self-defense. Really? How in the hell? It's bad enough that a young man is dead, killed for no reason. But, that family is being denied justice. Their son's killer is still free. And, no one can tell us why. This all happened in Florida. I'm so damn upset about this. It's 2012 & young Black men are being strategically hunted. How is this ok? Why aren't more people not outraged? This is completely bs in my book. Wrong is wrong.

Trayvon Martin was murdered in cold blood by a racist idiot with a gun. This shouldn't happen. At all. I need answers. His family deserves justice. I hate to feel that if the murdered boy was white and his killer was Black that the outrage would be overwhelming. I do know that if the situation was different, the Black killer would have been in jail already. This is a sad case. Trayvon should not be dead. Zimmerman should not still be free. If you haven't heard about this story, please Google the names. It's a sick & disgusting case.

Trayvon Martin Case Update

The attorneys for George Zimmerman have done something very weird. They have waived their rights to the :Stand Your Ground" trial that was set for next month. This is weird because a favorable ruling in that case would have thrown out the possibility of the murder trial in June. The SYG trial would have been decided by the sitting judge. There would have been no jury. As someone who has always been interested in and a follower of the law, I am very perplexed by this latest move. It seems out of place. And, very risky honestly. Now, Zimmerman will be taking his chances with a jury trial in June. Without SYG to stand on, I wonder what his defense will be. I do not know of anything that he can claim in a case like this. Because if not for his racial profiling and relentless pursuit of 17 year old Trayvon Martin, there would be no murder nor no trial. 

Martin's 18th birthday was last month. It's been a little over a year since he was murdered. It is still unbelievable to me. Well, not really because Black men are systematically killed by other Black men as well as other people. Black men are hunted, racially profiled and incarcerated art a higher rate than others. This is a reality in America. It makes me sad for my nephews/brothers/cousins/friends. It also pisses me off that this is the world we live in. Trayvon Martin was not given a chance that fateful February night. Zimmerman is guilty. I do not care to hear what his lawyers have to say. The evidence is clear. He killed a child for no other reason than he was a Black man. That is not a reason for a life to be taken. If Zimmerman is not found guilty, I will truly have lost faith in our judicial system. This is an open and shut case. I just wanted to give everyone an update. 

Trayvon Martin, A Year After His Murder

There is a name I'm sure none of us will ever forget. That name is Trayvon Martin. It's been a year since he was murdered in cold blood by George Zimmerman. A year since Sybrina Fulton & Tracy Martin lost their barely 17 year old son. A year since Jahvaris Fulton lost his brother. Trayvon missed his 18th birthday, his high school graduation, Thanksgiving and Christmas. And for what? There is no reason that he isn't here. Other than the fact a trigger happy, racist, wannabe cop decided that his life wasn't worth anything. There have been marches for justice and photos of people in hoodies to show support. I have been keeping up with this story because I'm concerned.

I'm still pissed about the way this case was fumbled in the beginning. Zimmerman was a free man for far too long. The "Stand Your Ground" trial is set for April. If the SYG law is upheld, Zimmerman will walk away. The trial for second degree murder is set for June. This murder matters to me for so many reasons. I lost my Father, my favorite Uncle and cousin Larry to gun violence. It took years to get justice for 2 of the 3 of them. My Father's murderer is still free.



Death is hard to handle. Murder is a whole other monster. Murder snatches life away. Usually for no reason and with no warning. Murder fractures families. Unsolved murders leave a pain behind that nothing can console. I know because I've lived it. The Fulton's and the Martin's are living through it. One year later, we still remember Trayvon. I'm still praying for justice. We'll never forget him.

NO JUSTICE, NO PEACE

Justice was NOT served tonight. George Zimmerman was found NOT GUILTY of murdering Trayvon Benjamin Martin. Excuse my French, but how in the holy fuck did this happen??!!??! If George Zimmerman is not guilty of killing an unarmed kid, then please tell me who killed Trayvon? Who? Who will be held accountable for his murder? Let's be clear, I am pissed. The same way I have been since I started writing about this case on March 15, 2012. This case struck a chord for me for so many reasons. None more than the fact that I have 4 nephews under the age of 10. This case and verdict scares me. I am afraid for them. This case was about so many things: racism, profiling, clothing, and privilege. Zimmerman killed a kid and then went home.  If not for the public outrage, this case would've went away. Zimmerman was arrogant as was his brother, mother and father (who wrote a book that blamed "Blacks" for his son being on trial no less). The trial started and I was disgusted by the defense team. I was prepared for this verdict.  

Do you see the smile on this murderer's face? Do you see the utter glee on his face? This is the body of a soulless, Godless murderer. Yes, he was found not guilty criminally. But, morally, this is the face of a cold blooded killer. He took the life of a 17 year old kid. He said that he does not regret taking Martin's life. He is guilty of that. No verdict could change that fact. He has to live with that. The all woman jury let a murderer walk. They did not do their job. This is sickening. I feel so deeply for the Martin family. Their son did not get the justice he was due tonight. I hope that they sue the Zimmerman family for all everything they have. No amount of money will bring Trayvon back. But, no murderer should be able to profit from his crime and Martin's death.

Moments like this really put things into perspective for you. I've been stressed over my heart and my emotional health and Sybrina and Tracy lost their child and didn't get justice. I feel incredibly shallow at this moment. Good job, Florida. The defense team put Martin on trial and convicted the victim. It is a gross misjudgement by West and O'Mara. The kind of karma that will come from this will have to be huge. If you are the parents/aunts/uncles/friends/Godparents of little Black children, hold them tight. America doesn't value Black people. Black President or not, this is not a post-racial land. This was proven tonight.  I'm just really sad. This makes me so sad for us as a people. We have so far to go. Jesus, help us. Rest in peace, Trayvon. We all know who killed you and why. I hope that Zimmerman never has another moment of peace. Killers do not deserve it. This night calls for dark liquor. I just can't. There is a petition by the NAACP to urge the Department of Justice to open a civil rights case against Trayvon's killer. If you agree, sign it. We can still fight the fight to the finish. For Trayvon. For Sean Bell. For Oscar Grant. For Jordan Davis. For the nameless, faceless ones who die each year to gun violence all over the world. For truth, For peace. Do something. 

   

"Come Shoot Me Clothes" Really?

Geraldo Rivera stated yesterday that "His hoodie killed Trayvon Martin as surely as George Zimmerman." As well as "Its not blaming the victim Its common sense-look like a gangsta &some armed schmuck will take you at your word."

A hoodie killed Trayvon? Is that right? Blaming the victims clothing is just about the most ignorant thing I've heard about this case. So Trayvon's clothing and not the overzealous idiot with a gun killed him? I cannot wrap my mind around people who fail to see reality for what it is. There is no grey area in this case. It is cut and dry, black and white. I'm sure that Trayvon could've been wearing any article of clothing and his killer Zimmerman would have found issue with it.

We are talking about a man who repeatedly called 911 to report any and every young Black man as suspicious. He even called the police on a 7 year old Black kid. The man had an issue with young Black men. That makes him a racist. Killing an unarmed Trayvon makes him a murderer. I don't know anyone who doesn't wear hoodies. They are warm and practical. Who doesn't own one or four? In the words of journalist Charles M. Blow, "there are no come shoot me clothes."

Furthermore, Black people have feared white people in hoods for decades. That doesn't give us the right to kill them. A hoodie did not nor could not kill Trayvon Martin. There is only one person responsible for that: George Zimmerman. Just as an Arizona tea and a bag of Skittles aren't a weapon or cause for suspicion. Murderers belong in jail. You can't arrest a hoodie. That is the reality. Trayvon was suspicious for one reason only: he was Black in a community that wasn't. That was his only crime, which isn't even one. I'm still upset about this. Excuse me while I pull my hoodie on.

#31WriteNow: Around These E-Streets (IX)

1. The MTV VMA's were a hot mess. Save for the Justin Timberlake and Bruno Mars performances. Everything else was literally a clusterfuck of white folks behaving badly while appropriating Black culture. I'm disgusted in many ways.
2. The Foreign Exchange finally released their new single "Call It Home" this week. I love it. If you aren't up on FE, you need to give them a listen. Love Phonte and Nicolay and their music. Haven't stopped listening to it all week. Get into them.  
3. This #31WriteNow writing challenge has been stressful. Extremely. I needed to do it. But, I am so happy that I can see the finish line. The light at the end of the tunnel is shining brightly. I am proud of myself for getting to this point. I'm also grateful for the new bloggers I've discovered through this challenge.
4. The appropriating of Black culture was at an all time high this week. ABC did this report which was just about my breaking point. Seriously, a report on twerking?!? Go home White America, you're drunk! Ugh. Oh, but Black Twitter did not disappoint. The trending topic of #ABCReports was golden earlier this week. Get into it for a laugh or 3. 
5. The PR machine that is the Kardashians are up to new low tricks today. I find it hard to believe that Lamar Odom is a raging crack addict and has been for years. As if this man doesn't work for the NBA and has to pass random drug testing. Also, it seems very ironic that this drug story comes out after the cheating allegations arise. I call major bs and I'm looking dead at Kris Jenner for this.
   
   
   

   
   
6. Also, I really hate when mainstream media gets ahold of new terms/slang. They kill it quickly. Such as their new found fascination with twerking. It is being added to the Oxford English dictionary. I'm disgusted. BTW, what Miley is doing isn't twerking. It's making a damn fool of herself. Go ahead and watch. Cringe and be embarrassed for her.
7. All week, I've been obsessed with one project: TGT's "Three Kings" cd. It is just great R&B. Tank, Ginuwine and Tyrese have come together as TGT. They released their debut cd "Three Kings" this week. It is literally all I've been listening to. If you are a fan of soulful R&B, this is for you. Get into it. Especially "OMG," "Tearing It Down," "Weekend In Love," and most importantly "FYH."
8. I've been a fan of Michael B. Jordan since he was Wallace on "The Wire." *spoiler alert* I cried when Bodie and Poot killed him in season one. Hated it. I've watched him grow as an actor. I really dug him in "Chronicle." I LOVED him as Oscar Grant in "Fruitvale Station." Great actor but really he is just so nice to look at. 
9. I can honestly say there is only one headline I want to see that ha the name of Trayvon Martin's killer in it. I'm not sorry about that sentiment. The lawyers of Martin's killer are moving forward to ask the state of Florida to foot the bill (between $200,000 - $300,000) for the trial. The murderer's wife was found guilty of perjury this week also. Like her husband, she too has skirted jail time. Still no justice for Trayvon Martin. 
10. I've written a few stories.You can read them here and here. I've taken a new approach to it. Well sort of. It's been building 6 words at a time. I didn't have a goal when I started out. But, it's ended up being my thoughts this year. Read it here if you like. I was going to stop at 100. I'm on 105.

Around These E-Streets (X)

°  The families of slain teens Trayvon Martin and Jordan Davis testified in front of Congress against the "Stand Your Ground" law. The hearings are essential and important because the law is too ambiguous. 

° The Foreign Exchange has to be one of my favorite groups of the last few years. This interview is really dope. If you don't know about them, now is the time to check their music out. You will not regret it. Trust me. 

° Juror B29 from the GZ trial says that the trial ruined her life. Sorry but I'm not sorry. This is the same woman who came out after the verdict and said that she believed GZ was guilty of murdering Trayvon Martin. She didn't fight for his justice. So, I have no sympathy with her. 

° Jay Z releases a statement that I am wholeheartedly here for. Read more aqui. Also, he has his first fragrance "Gold" coming out this winter. I bet it will smell like money!

° Kanye is delusional. He truly believes that his baby momma turned fiancee is more influential than our Harvard law degree holding First Lady Michelle Obama. What? o_O Kanye, have all the seats. Also, he is on a tour absurdity that Demetria Lucas (aka A Belle in Bk) and Michael Arceneaux explains to a t.

° Banksy took NYC by storm last month. Every day, there was a new Banksy art piece. I only think one day it was shut down due to the NYPD. Because catching the elusive artist is more important than doing actual police work. This and this have to be my two favorite pieces. Banksy is so dope. 

°  I discovered a new artist this week. His name is Rob Milton. His "Melt Away" is my current favorite track. Get into him via his Tumblr and here and on iTunes.

° I do not know what to say about this Chris Brown rehab for anger issues story. Luckily, Freshalina of crunktastical.net always does and quote colorfully I might add. She sums it up perfectly. 

Rant: George Zimmerman, Get Your Brother

 

The above picture was posted on Twitter by George Zimmerman's brother. The picture on the right is the young man who killed a baby in a stroller while trying to rob the mother over the weekend. The picture on the left is Trayvon Martin, the kid who was killed by Zimmerman more than a year ago. Both are 17 year old Black kids. That is the only comparison I can make from a picture. It seems the Zimmerman family is intent on being douches for all eternity. Martin is no longer breathing because Zimmerman decided that he shouldn't be. Zimmerman is a murderer no matter how theis case is spun. He stalked a kid, he racially profiled a kid, he fought a kid, and he used his gun to kill a kid. Those are the only facts I need to know. The trial begins in June. Zimmerman deserves no less than life in prison for taking a life. He deserves to pay for his actions. He killed Trayvon. Point blank.

 

I cannot take anyone in the Zimmerman family seriously. People need to realize that just because someone is family is not a reason to stand behind their wrong actions. If you kill someone in cold blood, mother/brother/sister/child/spouse, I will not be leading the cavalry to your defense. Because you are guilty. You have to pay for your sins. This case has disgusted me for over a year. I simply cannot! Zimmerman's brother is not helping his brother's case. He is furthering the racist claims. He basically says that all young Black men are murderers and criminals. That is a horrible stereotype and racist. I need this guy to go far away. And, GZ to go to jail for decades. OR until he dies. Either works for me. And, I'm sure The Fulton/Martin family feels the same.

Rant: George Zimmerman, Get Your Mom

It is my opinion that Geogre Zimmerman is a MURDERER. He is NOT the victim. He does not need to be saved. He does need to pay for what he did. I have been writing about the murder of Trayvon Martin for over a year now. This story has pissed me off from the beginning. Because Martin clearly was killed because he was a young Black male wearing a hoodie. That scares me because I have 2 brothers, 4 nephews that I love dearly. I know and love too many Black men to be quiet about this. Not only is George Zimmerman a racist murderer, he is also a liar which led to his bail being revoked last summer.  His family has been popping up in the news as well lately. Last month, his brother Robert posted some ridiculous tweets on Twitter. I'm sorry but when your brother kills an unarmed teenager, your opinion on the matter is null and void. I understand standing behind family. But, wrong is wrong and murder will always be murder. I cannot believe these people. 

And, now comes his mom with her two cents. And, let me tell you that's all her words are worth. His Mom, Gladys, has penned this letter on the "anniversary" of the day he was arrested. It's been over a year since Zimmerman killed Martin. I had to comment on this idiotic letter. I posted "Mrs. Zimmerman, your son is a MURDERER! IT is not a travesty that he was arrested and awaiting trial, it is justice. You do the crime, you do the time. While you are lamenting the incarceration of your son, Ms. Fulton is still grieving for hers. I realize now that this whole family is delusional. I cannot wait until 6/10 for this trial to start. I hope and pray that your son gets exactly what he deserves, which in my eye is life in jail. An eye for an eye." I've kept myself updated on this impending trial because I want to see justice served. This entire family are beyond words. I am done. Bring on the trial and justice for Trayvon! 

When Will It Be Enough?

It has taken me almost a full week to get my thoughts together on the verdict of Jordan Davis killer's trial. To put it mildly, I am thoroughly pissed. How in the world could a jury convict him of ALMOST killing three Black boys and not convict him of ACTUALLY killing Davis?!? How is that even possible? If he is guilty of attempted murder of the three then he has to be guilty of killing the child he actually did. There is no other way around it. I am glad that he will spend the rest of his life in jail because that's where a murderer belongs. I am also glad that he will be retired for Davis' murder in May. Davis' parents, Lucia McBath and Ron Davis, deserve justice for their murder son. Being Black, listening to "loud" rap nor wearing a hoodie are not just causes for anyone to be shot and killed. 

I am sick of Black parents losing their kids because some grown man decided he was threatened. Beyond over seeing mothers like Lucy and Sybrina on national tv crying over their boys and fathers like Tracy and Ron heartbroken over the men their sons will never become. I am tired of grown men killing kids then claiming to be the victim. Because clearly the victim is the person at the end of the barrel who lost their lives, see Trayvon and Jordan. This is an epidemic perpetuated by the ridiculous "Stand Your Ground" Law. It doesn't take a lawyer or a judge to see that the law is seriously flawed. There is something sincerely wrong when the deaths of young Black men at the hands of older, bigger white men is accepted and excused. When will it be enough? How many tears must we cry? Something needs to change. I am happy that Davis' killer is going to jail, would be happier if Martin's killer was there as well. We need a change. We need a resolution. I will never forget their names or their stories. We cannot let their deaths be in vain. 

Renisha McBride was just looking for help after a car accident. Trayvon Martin was just trying to get back home to watch the end of the All Star Game. Jordan Davis was just listening to music outside of a gas station. Johnathan Ferrell was just thankful for surviving a car accident. Oscar Grant was just going home after celebrating New Year's Eve with his friends. Aiyanna Stanley-Jones was just sleeping on the sofa. Amadou Diallo was just reaching for his wallet. Sean Bell was just on his way home to get ready for his wedding. Enough is enough. I am sick of watching the news and seeing people that look like me, my family, and my friends dead. It breaks my heart. I cannot stand it. Something has to change. Someone has to do something. When will it be enough, America?

Rant: Trayvon is Not A Joke, Blackface is Not Acceptable

The idiots above are William Feline, Caitlin Cimeno and Greg Cimeno. They are portraying Trayvon MArtin and George Zimmerman. For Halloween and for fun I guess. WHY?!?! Who are you deplorable human beings? I cannot even put into words how pissed I am about this. 

NEWSFLASH: THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR!! EVER!! Blackface is never culturally or morally appropriate. I do not know why people, especially white people, do not get this. It is offensive on so many levels. I'm offended that anyone thinks that a 17 year old murdered child is funny and ripe to be mocked via a Halloween costume. Who raised you no couth, no morals having folks?!? Where do you even come from? This is sick and disgusting. It is WRONG. There is no other way to spin it or see it. If you find this funny or cute, then something is wrong with you as well. This is what's wrong with the world right now. Folks are clearly insane. 

Actress Julianne Hough (above) did not get the memo that this is unacceptable. Why doesn't anyone get that you can portray Black characters like Crazy Eyes of "Orange Is The New Black" without donning Blackface? I cannot even imagine how disheartened Sybrina and Tracy, Trayvon's parents must feel. Isn't it bad enough that their son was murdered, that their dead son was put on trial for his own death basically and that his murderer got away with the crime? When is enough finally going to be enough? White people, get it together. This is not a situation to be mocked or ridiculed. If you are one of the sick ones who decided that Blackface was the way to go for Halloween or any other occasion, DON'T. Reconsider. Find the nearest stadium and have every seat in it. Also, pray because clearly you need Jesus. I just cannot with these people. Ugh.

Revoked!

In a twist that couldn't have come any sooner, George Zimmerman's bail has been revoked. George Zimmerman is headed to his rightful place: jail. On Friday, June 1st, the judge revoked his jail for lying. The judge concluded hat Zimmerman and his wife willfully misled the court about their finances. Both said on record that they were flat broke. This was a blatant lie as Zimmerman had collected over $200,000 in donations from a website he set up. The District Attorney was livid about this lie as was the judge.

The Zimmerman's may be one of the dumbest couples. The reason they got caught was due to their recorded jail telephone conversations. It doesn't take a genius to know that all conversations involving inmates are monitored. The wife hasn't been charged with contempt or perjury yet. But, I suspect that those charges are forthcoming. No judge or lawyer likes to be made a fool of. That's exactly what the Zimmerman's have done. Strange behavior for a man who's supposedly innocent, right?

To me, this whole ordeal brings into question Zimmerman's credibility. He lied about money to avoid jail. What's to stop him from doing the same in his trial? It's clear the man feels no remorse for killing an unarmed teen. A man scared of jail just might spin a tale to keep himself free. This is a blow to the defense team. And a great win for the prosecution. It gives me a little hope that justice may ultimately be served. Trayvon Martin's family may actually get their closure. This case may not even make it to trial this year. But, no matter what, I will be watching and praying for the right verdict.

"The fact George Zimmerman was dishonest is very important because his credibility is the most important thing in this entire case," Benjamin Crump, the Martin family lawyer, said Friday.

These Are Just My Thoughts...

- Twitter is the source of pure entertainment. The other night was one of those nights. Brian McKnight posted this gem. The ridiculousness that are the lyrics are only trumped by the creepy smile on his face. Brian, sir, really? You are 42. I'm gonna need you to stick to your earlier material. Leave the raunchy R&B to Trey, Chris, Usher and the rest of the youngsters. This song comes off very pedophile-ish to me. I giggle everything I hear it.

- I've been enjoying some really good R&B lately. I'm loving Monica, SWV, & Melanie Fiona's cds. They are all so good for different reasons. Oh & the "Think Like A Man" soundtrack is pretty awesome as well.

- I finished "The Hunger Games" trilogy. It was so good. I loved all three books. But, by far, my favorite was "The Hunger Games." To me, it was the most detailed oriented. Hopefully, I will see the movie as well.

- I love stumbling across great websites. I've discovered a few in the last week that have made me very happy.

- I am ready for he NBA Playoffs to begin. The shortened season has been nightly underwhelming.

- Politics have been really dirty lately. I'm over the Republicans mudslinging, namecalling and downright childish behavior. Come on, November. I'm ready to re-elect my President.

- I'm beginning to have a really bad feeling about this Trayvon Martin/George Zimmerman upcoming trial. I want justice for the Fulton/Martin family. I pray that they get it.

- Since I've started drinking water more exclusively, whenever I drink something sugary it makes my tummy hurt. I used to love Cane's Sweet Iced Tea & now I have to water it down. I actually crave water now. It's amazing how quickly my body has adapted to such a big change.

- Acne Sucks! Yeah, that's about it. Ugh!

- I've just started "Fifty Shades of Grey." I'm slightly intrigued by this storyline. It's supposed to be an erótica that delves into BDSM, a lifestyle I know nothing about. I hear this trilogy is all the rage. It's also getting the movie treatment. So, I wanna know what all the hype is about.

- I am such a need. Reading makes me so happy. I love to get lost in the authors world.

- Cheers to the freaking weekend. I needed it.

Around These E-Streets (IV)

I am a voracious reader. Whether it is books, magazines or online, I am almost always reading something. I wanted to share so interesting things I ran across this last week or some on the web. Hope you guys enjoy it.

° Is There A "Right" Age To Have Children? Clearly, I should not have read this article. It talks about how Black people should wait until they are between 30-35 to have kids. Just great, I'm already halfway through those ages. Anyway, good read.

° The "natural hair movement" is a hot button issue in the Black community. This article takes a deeper look into things. It was a very interesting read. I find that White people are more intrigued about my hair inits natural state than anyone else.

° I, for one, have not forgotten about Trayvon Martin. I am keeping up with the case. I just read this article that states that his parents are planning a civil suit against Zimmerman, the man who murdered their child. The trial isn't coming fast enough for me. I want justice for Trayvon and his parents.

° Also, the Jordan Davis case has my attention as well. This article focuses on the parents of Davis on what would have been his 18th birthday. Less than 3 months ago, Davis was killed for no reason by a white man. This is another trial that I will be watching.

° Necole Bitchie runs a very successful entertainment blog. This article talks about her journey. I loved the insight on her.

° Just so you guys know, this could not have been me. An old, clearly drunk White man called a toddler a n---er and slapped the kid in the face on a flight. You can read about it here. I would have blacked out on this man. How do you slap a kid in the face and think that it is ok? What is wrong with people??

Justice For Jordan...Not Exactly.

Michael Dunn, killer of Jordan Davis, was found guilty on 4 of the 5 charges. What he wasn't convicted of was murdering Jordan Davis. That charge was ruled a mistrial. This means that Dunn can be (and most likely will be) retried on the murder charge. He will be sentenced next month. I am happy that he was found guilty on the other four charges. I am, however, not satisfied. Jordan Davis should not be dead. Davis should be celebrating his 19th birthday tomorrow. The picture above is of Sybrina Fulton, mother of Trayvon Martin, embracing Lucia McBath, mother of Jordan Davis. This must end. It has to. It is like open season on young Black boys. My heart is still heavy for Davis' parents, Lucy and Ron. This is a series case of a miscarriage of justice. Being Black is not a reason to be dead, playing rap music loud isn't a reason either, and neither is wearing a hoodie and carrying tea and Skittles. I am so afraid for all the little brown boys and girls in my family and in the world. This is a horrible way to live. We need to feel and be free. We deserve and demand justice for Jordan and Trayvon and Johnathan and Renisha and every other unknown murdered Black person. Justice for Jordan!

Newsflash: Black Skin Isn't A Crime

Renisha McBride. 

Jonathan Ferrell. 
Jordan Davis.
Trayvon Martin.

I am tired. Tired of waking up to news of another unarmed Black teen being shot and killed by a white person. Tired of the killers claiming the "Stand Your Ground" defense. Ti-red. Is is open season on Black people? Does my brown skin automatically make me a suuspect and a criminal? And, if so, there is something inherently wrong with you and your racist way of thinking. This is not ok. Killing people is not ok. Murderers like George Zimmerman, Michael David Dunn, Randall Kerrick, and Theodore Paul Wafer should do the time for their crimes. No one should be able to legally kill unarmed Black people and not go to jail. How is this ok with anyone? 

Trayvon was just walking home from the store with a tea and some Skittles. He never made it there. His race made him a suspect in the eyes of his killer. Jordan Davis was just sitting in a car listening to music in the parking lot of a gas station. He was minding his own business. He never made it home because his killer decided to take his life. Jonathan Ferrell survived a horrific car crash only to die at the hands of a white cop who considered him a suspect. REnisha McBride had a car accident, a dead cell phone and was just trying to get home. Another child who did not make it home because her killer decided she shouldn't. None of this is just or moral or legal or right. Why does my skin offend white people so damn much? Does my Blackness really scare them that much? Is there an automatic target placed on our backs? None of them were doing anything wrong or illegal or criminal and they are still dead. There should be nationally outrage about this.

This is how I truly know that the U.S. is not a post-racial country. Also, that term is stupid. Even with a Black President and a Black First Family living in the White House, we are not past race related issues int his country. I've seen and experienced more issues of racism since President Obama began his historic run in 2007. Race will always be in issue in the country which was built on the genocide of one race (Native Americans) and the enslavement of another (African Americans). No, I do not want apologies for slavery or genocide. I want acknowledgement of the messed up history of this country. I want racist to realize that none of us have a choice on our skin tones. The melanin in my skin isn't meant to offend you neither is my pride in it. I am fearful for my 4 brown nephews and 5 brown nieces that this is the world they are growing up in. I am pissed that this is the world we live in. And, more than anything, I am tired, weary and sick of this. It's 2013 and change is needed more than ever. We need a resolution but even more, I think we need a revolution. And, yes, it needs to be televised, tweeted, tumbled and blogged about. 

This Week Has Been Too Much.

It began with the George Zimmerman murder trial. For those living under a rock, he is obtrial for killing an unarmed 17 year old Trayvon Martin. It began with, of all things, a knock knock joke. Seriously. I’m sorry America but is a black child being murdered funny? It’s not. And no one laughed at that bullshit. The trial has been on one all week. I try not to say I hate people but Zimmerman & his defense team have made my list this week.

As has the Supreme Court. Knocking down part of the Voting Rights Act one day and standing up for DOMA the next. It’s like one step forward and ten steps back. I’m sorry but racism is still alive and thriving in these United States. I’ve literally been pissed all week.

Then, the great state of Texas decided to show its natural ass. Sen. Wendy Davis had to stand on her feet for almost 13 hours to stop a bill that would close all but 2 abortion clinics in the state. The other male senators were rude & talked over her. Then they tried to lie to pass the bill. Once it was recorded that the bill couldn’t pass, Rick Perry has called for a second vote. I really wish folks without reproductive organs would stop trying to legislate it. Just sit down and shut up.

I’m a politics buff. I love it. But, this week has knocked a lot of that love out of me. I’m really just disgusted with almost everything this week has been. It’s been too much. It’s been one of those wide eye weeks. We have pay attention and get involved. Especially women and minorities. If not, the old days will make a swift return. Just get into the people governing your state.

Oh, and to top it off, my favorite NBA team just broke down the squad. The coach, Doc Rivers, is now coaching the Clippers. And, my favorite player Kevin Garnett as well as Paul Pierce have been traded to the Nets. I'm sick. Ugh.

Go home, this week. You're drunk!!

The Point Of It All: Randoms

° I HATE that I'm still sad. HATE that my heart was broken by the person I trusted the most. HATE that the entire situation makes me question my own judgment (I mean, how could I be so wrong?). HATE that I carry these feelings, this burden around with me. But, most of all, I don't hate the person who did this to me, who caused me to doubt so much, especially the existence of love. And, this is why I feel stupid. I'm not accustomed to that feeling. It's foreign and uncomfortable.

° The Trayvon Martin rallies I've attended the last two weekends have given me something to set my mind on. The verdict was wrong. I will do what I can to effect change. It's needed. From the "Stand Your Ground" law to gun control laws, they all need to be reevaluated.

° I had a dream about my future daughter. That's significant because I haven't dreamed about kids this year. It made me smile. Even if it was just a dream, for that moment little Ms. YK_ existed.

° My sister and my cousin are both pregnant. Both were surprise announcements. Babies make me happy. Happiness is needed in my life.

° I'm thinking about unplugging for a while. No Twitter or Tumblr or Blogger or Facebook. Just no contact for a moment. A break is needed. I'm really thinking about that. It's all too easily accessible.

° I really hate hearing songs that bring me back to a specific moment. I heard "At This Time" by Algebra followed by MJ's "Heaven Can Wait" and literally broke down crying. I forgot I still had that playlist. I deleted it swiftly. ¡No más!

° I did something huge the other day. I deleted my online journal. Every single post. I was up to 200 posts for the year. I just didn't see where it was helping instead of harming. I need to focus on what's in front of me and stop questioning what's behind me. The journal is no more. And I'm ok with that.

° It's Sunday & it's rainy. So, I'm going to watch episodes of "The Newsroom" while eating kettle corn popcorn & sea salt caramel Gelato. I'll enjoy every moment of it